Gay Jewish group Dayenu to celebrate 15th anniversary this Mardi Gras
THIS year’s Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras will see Sydney-based Jewish LGBTI support group Dayenu marching to celebrate its 15th anniversary.
Dayenu social committee member Jonathan Solomon said that reaching 15 years was “a great achievement” and he attributed their success to the “amazing individuals who have helped grow Dayenu to where it is today”.
Solomon also gave a hint of what to expect in this year’s float.
“We expect awesome choreography, a glittering float and some fab disco music,” he told the Star Observer.
“Our theme is ‘We Are Family’, so we have invited Dayenu members to bring along supportive family members to march with us on our float.”
Solomon said the group reinforces that there is always a “second family” for Jewish LGBTI people whose families may not be supportive.
“[Dayenu] also sends a message to GLBTI Jews who are still in the closet that they are not alone,” he said.
“There is a Jewish LGBTI community out there and a circle of friends who will be there to support them whenever they decide to come out.”
Dayenu doesn’t stand alone, with mainstream organisations such as the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies and the Jewish Community Council of Victoria passing anti-homophobia and anti-transphobia motions in recent years to show their support of the LGBTI community.
After the Mardi Gras parade, Dayenu will continue to host events throughout the year, such synagogue services, charity work with Jewish Care and Our Big Kitchen, film nights, Shabbat dinners and pub nights.
(Photo credit: phillipdavid.blogspot.com.au)
My historic voxpop interview recording with “Stars Of David” entrant participants in the assembly area for the 4th March 2000 Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade: firstly with a man visiting from South Africa and then with drag queen Goldie Gold. recorded by John Frame for the Queer Radio program on 4ZZZfm Brisbane: (4 minutes, 8mb, 256kps stereo) http://www.queerradio.org/SydneyMardiGras2000_StarsOfDavidComeOut_x_JohnFrame_QueerRadio4ZZZ.mp3
Star Of David Rainbow Flag is available from Rainbow Store with delivery within Australia before Sydney Mardi Gras parade. Order from this link http://www.rainbowstore.com.au/products/Screened-Star-Of-David-Rainbow-Flag-3-feet-by-5-feet-Gay-Lesbian-Pride.html
MCC Sydney is celebrating its 40th anniversary this Mardi Gras!
Oh, that’s awesome!